January 30, 2017 - On February 7, 2017 the board of trustees will receive information, presentations and delegations at the regular board meeting regarding the possible centralization of Central Office and Support Service offices to the Grimshaw Jr Sr High School site. The review of information will take place beginning at 1:00 pm and the public is welcome to attend.

In October of 2016, Peace River School Division’s (PRSD) Centralized Services Community Advisory Group (CSCAG) presented a report to the board of trustees in favour of centralization to Grimshaw. The CSCAG was comprised of members from town and chamber organizations from Peace River, Manning, Grimshaw and Fairview, as well as PRSD’s union and non-union staff. The board accepted the report as information and requested that further financial information be brought back to the February 7, 2017 regular board meeting for the board’s consideration.

“After the October board meeting, the board unanimously agreed that more information was required before any decisions could be made” says Kuester. “The economic climate has changed since the original cost analysis from 2014 and updated financial information is required in order to make any decisions.”

Those wishing to present information to the board are asked to contact Denise Fortier, Corporate Secretary before February 2, 2017 by email at fortierd@prsd.ab.ca or by phone at 780-624-3650 ext. 10114.

“This is not a decision we take lightly” says Board Chair Darren Kuester. “We are aware that centralization will impact communities at both ends of the spectrum. First and foremost, the board serves as advocates for students and we are committed to make decisions that support student learning and success.”